How Moss Grows in the Shade

Botany

• Mosses reproduce sexually and asexually. Although they do not have seeds, they produce spores that act like seeds. As they get older, the spores break away from the parent plant. If they land in an ideal area and are fertilized, they will germinate and grow to become more moss. Mosses also reproduce asexually by sending out new shoots in the spring. If the conditions are right, new moss plants will be started.

Culture

• In order to grow, moss must have shade and most of these essential ingredients: moisture, acidity (low pH), low fertility and a hard surface, such as rocks or compacted soil. Ideally, all of those items will be present to provide a healthy environment for moss to thrive.

Cures

• If you are trying to remove moss from invading your turf grass, you must identify and reverse the underlying conditions that allow moss to grow. Remove limbs from trees to let more light in. Test the soil to see if it needs lime or other nutrients. Aerate the soil to remove compaction or add compost to improve soil structure. You can use mechanical or chemical controls to remove moss, but it will come back if the underlying conditions still exist to favor its growth.

Gardening with Moss

• If you decide to go along with Mother Nature, you can convert an existing area for new moss introduction. Remove any existing plants or debris. Make sure the soil is firm. If you need to lower the pH, which should be around 5.5, you can add aluminum sulfate or liquid sulfur. Check the product label for quantities to use. Keep the area moist.You can wait patiently for moss to show up. You can also transplant some from other areas of your garden or purchase moss transplants at specialty nurseries. Transplant success rates are not high, but keeping the area moist for the first few months will go a long way to establish the moss.You can also make or purchase a slurry of blended moss, beer and buttermilk and apply to the surface.